<p>The radiation-induced polymerization method, optimized with a dose of 30 k Gy, successfully synthesizes acrylic Acid-Grafted Stearic Acid, yielding a hybrid organic adsorbent with enhanced hydrophobicity, with strong affinity towards zirconium ions at pH 4. The maximum adsorption capacity of 156 mg g⁻¹ was attained. 0.1 M oxalic acid efficiently desorbed Zr (IV), achieving 99% desorption efficiency, while the adsorbent maintained over 90% of its adsorption capacity after five consecutive adsorption–desorption cycles. Overall, the findings suggest that the synthesized adsorbent is a highly effective candidate for the removal of Zr (IV) ions from aqueous solutions.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>